Tempers Fly during North London Derby

It’s always intense when North London rivals clash. With the title on the line, though, tempers were bound to flare between Arsenal and Spurs.

Fans of the opposing teams broke out into a violent conflict outside of White Hart Lane before kick off, prompting riot police to the scene.

Spurs dominated possession for the first 20 minutes of the derby, testing Arsenal Goalkeeper David Ospina several times—including a beautiful reflex save on a kick by Erik Lamela from in tight.

However, it was Arsenal who would strike first as Aaron Ramsey received a pass inside the box and beautifully flicked it in with his back heel. Arsenal went into halftime leading 1:0.

Early in the second half, Arsenal’s Francis Coquelin committed a sliding challenge in an attempt to win the ball from Harry Kane. Coquelin took out Kane’s legs and received his second yellow card of the game, resulting in a red card.

After the sending off for Arsenal, Spurs went on the attack. On a corner, Harry Kane received the ball and blasted it at the net. Spurs fans would say the ball crossed the line, refuting the goal line technology system, which was one its closest decisions ever.

Despite being denied on the doorstep, Tottenham did not give up. In the 59th minute, defender Toby Alderweireld recieved the ball in a similar spot to Kane. He slotted home the ball to level the game for Spurs.

Just a minute after, Spurs’ world class striker Harry Kane cut into the middle from a wide position. He then curved a remarkable strike into the top corner of the goal past a helpless Ospina.

In the 75th minute, Spurs were disorganized at the back and Arsenal took advantage. Alexis Sanchez received the ball in the box after a nicely timed run, placed his shot past a diving Hugo Lloris.

The game would finish 2:2, with both teams getting a point from the game. Arsenal stays in third place with 52 points and Spurs remain in second place with 55 points, only two behind league leaders Leicester City.